Cabins near Wanaque, New Jersey sit within the rugged highlands region where elevations range from 400-1,300 feet. The terrain features mixed hardwood forests, rocky outcrops, and numerous small lakes formed by glacial activity. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing from December through February, making cabin accommodations particularly valuable during colder months when tent camping becomes impractical.
What to do
Hiking at High Point State Park: The state park features trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging sections of the Appalachian Trail. "Been here a dozen times! Great hiking for all abilities. Free camping at stone shelters. Beautiful lakes all over the place," notes one visitor to The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center.
Swimming at Sebago Lake: The beach area at Sebago provides a refreshing break during summer months. "Sebago has a huge lake and great beach area. It was perfect for lounging and swimming in during a hot summer day," reports a camper at Sebago Cabin Camp. Lake access is typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Explore Tillman Ravine: Located within Stokes State Forest, this geological formation offers a unique hiking experience approximately 30 miles from Wanaque. "We hiked the Tillman Ravine trail (tip: make the trail a loop and visit both the ravine and the nearby old cemetery)," recommends a visitor who enjoyed the forest's natural features.
Kayaking on Panther Lake: Multiple rental options are available for water recreation. "We had a great time fishing on the lake. Spots are spacious and campers were spread out throughout the large campground," mentions a guest at Great Divide Campground. Kayak rentals typically cost $15-20 per hour.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabins offer adequate separation from neighbors. "Sites had room to move and it was quiet and peaceful. Kids had lots of fun on the free kayaks and pool," notes a camper about their experience at Great Divide Campground. Most cabins are spaced at least 30-50 feet apart.
Access to wilderness: The forested settings provide immediate nature immersion. "My fiancé, dog, and I have been going here for over 2 years and we love it. The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," shares a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation.
Proximity to NYC: Many cabin locations offer wilderness experiences without long travel times. "Close enough to the city, far enough to enjoy the nature. Expect crowds," warns a visitor to Sebago Cabin Camp, noting the popularity of these accessible getaways approximately 30-45 miles from urban centers.
Wildlife viewing: Animal sightings add to the cabin experience. "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio," reports a camper at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center, where wildlife observation opportunities are common during morning and evening hours.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Demand exceeds supply, particularly for cabins. "Cabins are 'rustic' - but there's what you need: cots, electricity, a fridge. Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire or other outdoor set up," advises a camper at Sebago about managing expectations for amenities.
Winter limitations: Many facilities reduce operations during colder months. "The cabins are reasonably priced and well-appointed, if a bit rustic. The interior features are just what you'd expect for getting away for the weekend," notes a visitor at Stokes State Forest, where winter cabin rentals require additional preparation.
Bring essential supplies: Most cabins provide minimal furnishings. "The site was very loud (dance music) until after 11pm. Quiet time at 10pm. Great site for a party, try to stay away from this end of the site or choose a site away from other bookings if you'd like quiet," suggests a camper about managing noise levels at certain locations.
Bear safety required: Proper food storage is mandatory in this region. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns a visitor about wildlife encounters that can occur even at established cabin sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose cabins with separate sleeping areas: Layout matters for family comfort. "Rented a cabin in November (#009) and again in December (#008) of 2021. I favored Cabin 8, the kitchen and bathroom were separated from the main room," shares a visitor to Stokes State Forest, noting how room division improves family stays.
Seek out kid-friendly activities: Scheduled events enhance family experiences. "They have a beach behind it. Ranger Joe is with the kids and they have wood for purchase on site," mentions a visitor to Sebago about staff-led programming available during peak season.
Look for cabin clusters: Group bookings work well for extended families. "The campground is small but also secluded. We always hike to the lake here, it's a very easy hike and also very peaceful," notes a visitor about Mahlon Dickerson's layout that accommodates multiple family units while maintaining nature access.
Check shower access: Bathroom facilities vary widely between cabin locations. "This county park has large, wooded campsites with electric and water. It's beautiful and quiet, and close to beautiful hiking trails, lakes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities," reports a frequent visitor to Camp Glen Gray about amenity access.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup availability: Not all cabins offer consistent power. "Very clean and quiet. Website lists water hook ups at long distances but they have hose reels to help with that. Our site (15) said 75' however the 50' hose reel made it to our RV connection," explains a visitor to Mahlon Dickerson Reservation about managing utility connections.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain can present setup difficulties. "Located in the Skylands of New Jersey, Mahlon Dickerson Campgound is a perfect place to spend a few nights or a couple of weeks. The campsites are paved and mostly level," notes another visitor, emphasizing the importance of properly prepared sites for larger vehicles.
Navigation considerations: Access roads vary in quality and width. "Easy to navigate our 38 ft. RV. Easy to dump and fill. Peaceful. Close to train to N.Y. City," shares a visitor about the accessibility at certain cabin locations that also accommodate larger recreational vehicles.
